Skin and Hair care: Hair and scalp
CARING FOR YOUR HAIR
AND YOUR SCALP
2 min read
• If you’re experienced hair loss, wash your hair with a very gentle shampoo the day before your sessions and avoid using shampoo for the following 3 to 5 days. Gently pat your hair dry with a towel. Avoid anything that may be harsh on your scalp and your hair: hair-dryers, flat-irons or curling irons, hot rollers, perms, dyes, braids, and tight buns.
• Using a cold cap on wet hair about fifteen minutes before starting chemotherapy can help reduce penetration of toxins in hair cells, which will prevent hair loss. The cap must be changed as soon as it softens, and removed about half an hour after the end of the session.
• Ask your medical team for advice.
Carine’s tip
Go to bed with a net over your hair or on a satin cotton pillowcase.
CARING FOR YOUR SCALP
If your hair has fallen out, you may experience itching or feel like your “hair hurts”. Take care of your scalp by using adapted skincare products: massage it daily or ask someone to help you massage it with a nourishing, anti-itching product such as La Roche-Posay’s Kerium Extra Gentle Shampoo. You can leave the product on by wrapping a warm towel around your head.
Carine’s tip
Choose hair products that include "Polysorbate 21" to soothe your scalp and restore the softness and shine to your hair.
SELECTING YOUR
“HEAD COVERING”
Synthetic or natural wig, hat, beanie, or headscarf... You have many options to choose from. Ask a friend or family member to help you decide.
Specialized shops and major brands offer personalized appointments, allowing you to make your selection freely and discreetly. Some will even meet you in your home or hospital room. Once you have made your selection, you may decide to cut your hair shorter if you like, to get used to your new appearance.
And remember: this is only temporary.
